Staff Writer

Doors to Pike County’s chapter of the American Red Cross were closed last year, but they are again open to those who may need help.

Recently, Jane Thrash came on board as the community development specialist for the local American Red Cross office.

"We’re open and running," Thrash said.

When Ralph Fowee retired last year, the Red Cross office here had nobody at the helm, so the American Red Cross of Central Alabama office in Montgomery took over assisting citizens of Pike County.

Pike County’s American Red Cross chapter was chartered in October 1917 when Woodrow Wilson was president. It was dissolved in August 2000 and recently re-opened under the umbrella of the ARC of Central Alabama.

With Thrash’s appointment, the office is now open from 8 a.m. until noon every week day. The office is located at 404 East Walnut Street what was the Southeast Alabama Gas District’s temporary office while the new office was being constructed.

Thrash said she is happy to "get the Red Cross office open and running again" and will do what she can help those in need.

In addition to offering help during times of disaster, the American Red Cross also offers instruction in first aid, cardio pulmonary resuscitation and lifeguard courses.

"We’re getting ready for those, now," Thrash said of the classes being offered.

Those classes will be important with new rules requiring day care workers to have safety training.

And, anyone who has rolled up a sleeve, knows the Red Cross conducts blood drives to replenish blood supplies in hospitals and blood banks.

The Red Cross office can also supply information on AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, tornado and hurricane safely and tips on fire safety.

Right now, Thrash is still learning the ropes and needs some volunteers to help her.

"We’re taking volunteers on a daily basis," Thrash said of those who can help her in the office.

"We’re on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week," Thrash said of needing volunteers.

Anyone interested in volunteering with the American Red Cross or in need of information or assistance, can call Thrash at 566-0632 or at home, (334) 735-2004.